The Role of Wearable Sensors in Managing Sport-Related Injuries and Rehabilitative Processes in Young Athletes: A Literature Review

Abstract

Over the past few years, the integration of wearable sensors has emerged as a transformative factor in the field of sports medicine. This is particularly seen in the context of managing sport-related injuries and facilitating rehabilitative processes, especially in young athletes. This sudden transformation is driven by the capacity of wearable sensors to offer real-time, objective data on various physiological and biomechanical parameters, providing valuable insights into athletes’ performance and well-being. Wearable sensors contribute significantly to the rehabilitation process by offering continuous monitoring capabilities. This allows sports medicine professionals to design personalized rehabilitation programs tailored to the specific needs of individual athletes. The real-time feedback provided by these devices aids in tracking progress, adjusting interventions as necessary, and ensuring a more efficient and targeted recovery. For young athletes, whose bodies are still growing and developing, the role of wearable sensors becomes particularly essential. Understanding the unique physiological demands and potential vulnerabilities in this demographic allows for a more nuanced and age-appropriate approach to injury management and rehabilitation. Moreover, the use of technology in this context can also serve as a motivator for young athletes, enhancing their engagement in the recovery process. This study discusses the impact of such technology on injury management, rehabilitation outcomes, and the overall well-being of young athletes. Furthermore, considerations are given to the challenges and future prospects of integrating wearable sensors into mainstream sports medicine practices.